When the Philadelphia Flyers selected Matvei Michkov at No. 7 overall in the 2023 NHL Draft, the organization was under the full impression that the young Russian would take some time to make it to North America. He did sign a five-year contract with SKA Saint Petersburg in the KHL, after all.
That should have kept the young phenom playing in Russia until the 2025-26 season — but that no longer looks to be the case. The Flyers top prospect is headed to the United States after being released from his KHL contract, he said in a statement on Tuesday.
“After much thought, I decided to try my hand in the NHL,” Michkov confirmed. “I would like to say a huge thank you to the SKA management for being cooperative in this matter. I immediately outlined my position that I want to play in the KHL only for SKA — no exchanges or loans. I will make my way to the NHL, but if I return to the KHL, I will only play in St. Petersburg.”
That's a strong statement from the 19-year-old, who figures to be the headliner at Flyers training camp come September. After putting up a very impressive 41 points in 47 KHL games playing against men, it's going to be very interesting to see how Michkov handles NHL competition next season.
The phenom added: “The decision was not easy, but I feel it was the right one: I am full of strength and desire to prove that I am worthy of playing there. In addition, this was a long-time dream of my father; he really wanted to see my debut in the NHL, and for me it is extremely important to take this step, also for his sake. I'm sure he would support me in this.”
Michkov's father passed away two days after being reported missing in Sochi, Russia in April of 2023.
Flyers looking to match or improve on strong 2023-24 season
After a surprisingly fantastic campaign that saw the Flyers occupy the No. 3 spot in the Metropolitan Division for most of 2023-24, it all came crashing down in the final month. Philly lost nine of its last 11 games, falling out of both the division and wildcard race in the final week.
It was a devastating blow, but an overall encouraging season in Philadelphia. The team took a serious step forward, and with a plethora of young talent, they should only get better in the quest to return to the postseason in 2025.
Michkov, who should easily make the team out of training camp, figures to be a focal point of that all of next season. And general manager Danny Briere is excited to get the young Russian to North America — especially a few years early.
“The Philadelphia Flyers were informed earlier today of Matvei Michkov’s release from his KHL contract with SKA Hockey Club. We are certainly excited to learn of this news and look forward to reconnecting with Matvei’s representatives in the coming days,” Briere said in a statement on Tuesday. “Additionally, we are appreciative of SKA Saint Petersburg for allowing Matvei Michkov to pursue his dream of playing in the NHL.”
All signs point to Michkov joining a phenomenal 2024-25 rookie class that should also feature Macklin Celebrini, Will Smith and Ryan Leonard.
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